Work on 110 new 'affordable' homes in Poole begins in spring

The Hillbourne housing development, comprising 110 new sustainable and affordable homes, is expected to be finished in summer 2026. 

Built up of 40 two-bedroom homes, 41 three-bedroom homes and an independent living apartment building with 29 one-bed flats, the scheme will be built off Kitchener Crescent in Waterloo estate. 

Designed with modern living in mind, the Hillbourne housing development will deliver high-quality, low carbon and energy-efficient homes that will exceed current regulations by 68 per cent.  

It’s also designed with an eye on shared space living, helping to reduce traffic speed and give pedestrians priority. 

The development will be landscaped, featuring 61 newly planted trees and 200m of native hedging. A wildlife pond and bird/bat boxes are included to enhance the existing wildlife. 

The safe and secure homes will achieve a minimum Secured by Design rating of silver, with highly visible parking, a layout designed to provide passive surveillance and a communal area for families. 

Those behind the scheme – BCP Council and Surrey-based Wates Group – have said it will deliver £24m of social value in terms of employment, training and development opportunities. 

Thirteen new apprenticeship roles will be made available. 

Wates Group will also generate £6m of spend and work opportunities for SME businesses through the local supply chain, with 60 hours of the company’s time also being committed to supporting community initiatives. 

Cabinet member for housing Kieron Wilson (Image: Daily Echo)

Cabinet member for housing Kieron Wilson said: “The Hillbourne scheme is great news for the residents of Poole and the wider conurbation.  

“I am delighted that the scheme is now progressing to construction phase. Building works are due to start in May this year and are expected to be completed by the summer of 2026.  

“The scheme has now been allocated a £7.84m grant from Homes England, this is a much-welcomed contribution to a project which is a key part of our new build strategy.  

“This site is a huge part of our continued vision to provide good quality homes that are sustainable and affordable for all our residents.”  

Barry Williams, project director at Wates Group, added: "We are pleased to be working in partnership with BCP Council to deliver much-needed affordable homes, that achieve outstanding energy efficiency, in Poole through the Hillbourne development. 

“This scheme exemplifies our joint commitment to creating sustainable communities and providing homes that meet the needs of residents both now and in the future - reducing energy bills and supporting local supply chains." 

Plans to redevelop the Kitchener Crescent site were first approved by the now-abolished Poole council in 2018 to fund the £9 million rebuild of the school.